Morocco is now viewing its coastline differently. With over 3,500 kilometers of coast, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, the Kingdom aims to turn its shoreline into more than just a tourist or commercial asset: it seeks to make it a genuine lever for sustainable development and economic sovereignty.
In his opening speech to Parliament, His Majesty King Mohammed VI emphatically emphasized the necessity of “optimally operationalizing the levers for sustainable development of the national coastline.” This clear directive aligns with a Royal Vision that places maritime heritage at the heart of the country’s growth model.
An Integrated Vision for Coastal Development
The Sovereign underscored that the Kingdom’s prosperity relies on effective territorial solidarity, whether in mountainous, oasis, or coastal areas. Therefore, the coastline must become a space of balance between economic development, regional equity, and ecological preservation.
The objective is twofold: to utilize the economic potential offered by Morocco’s shores while also protecting the fragile ecosystems that comprise them. This approach is fully in line with the territorial and environmental reform dynamics initiated by the Kingdom.
From Law to Action
Adopted in 2015, the Coastal Law 81-12 establishes the legal framework for this ambition. It governs urbanization, protects the public maritime domain, and mandates a rational management of coastal resources. In addition, the National Coastal Plan, currently being implemented, aims to translate these principles into regional programs for sustainable development and management.
The challenge now is to move to action: to enhance coordination between local authorities, public agencies, and private operators, and to integrate ecological criteria into industrial, port, and tourist projects.
Blue Economy as a Driver
In this new vision, the concept of blue economy takes on a strategic dimension. It encompasses sustainable fishing, renewable marine energies, port logistics, responsible tourism, and the valorization of fishery resources. These sectors are capable of creating jobs, attracting investments, and reinforcing Morocco’s maritime sovereignty.
A Symbol of Sovereignty and Balance
From Tangier to Dakhla, the Moroccan coast is becoming a living laboratory for sustainable development. The Royal Speech consolidates this transformation: it is no longer about exploiting the sea, but about managing, protecting, and sharing it. By placing the coastline at the heart of development policy, His Majesty King Mohammed VI paves the way for a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally respectful maritime economy.
With maroc-diplomatique.net